The Yunnan Hui Rebellion in the Late Qing: Its Origins and Course

The Hui uprising in Yunnan during the late Qing began in 1855 and ended in 1873. It lasted eighteen years, with flames of war engulfing all of Yunnan and repercussions reaching the southwestern provinces. It was unquestionably a major event in history. Yet official records deliberately distorted it, while private accounts were written to shield those responsible. As a result, the facts remained unclear and the truth hidden, even to this day. Scholars have tried to bring the matter to light, but circumstances and limited knowledge left them with no way to begin, and their hopes went unfulfilled. In reality, only eighty years have passed since the uprising ended. Many secret records must still survive, and some of the elders who remember it may still be alive. Diligent research would surely uncover much, as the results of Mr. Bai Shouyi’s recent inquiries clearly show. Moreover, the People’s Government is now pursuing the sound policy of promoting unity among the ethnic groups. Research into the history of formerly oppressed peoples should therefore be far easier. If interested scholars from all sides divide the work and cooperate, fully setting the record straight on this long-standing case should be only a matter of time.